Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer

Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing a criminal conviction can be overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with drug possession, sex crime, or murder charges, your entire world can change in a moment. The criminal justice system can be intimidating, and navigating these complexities alone can be daunting. Laws and procedures can be intricate, leaving many confused. When you need someone to advocate for your rights, know that a Raleigh criminal defense lawyer at Steven T. Meier, PLLC, is here.

Our team understands your situation and can chart a path forward. We have seen many without proper representation receive criminal convictions. Their penalties often take away their freedom for years, and lingering effects exist after they serve their time. With our help, you can ensure that you comprehend your legal options, rights, and the optimal path to success.

A Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer You Can Trust

Protecting your rights rests on understanding the intricacies of the criminal justice system. Stress can be tremendous for individuals facing charges. We seek to make their lives easier. Our knowledge helps us build the most robust cases possible and take every advantage we find. You can hire us knowing that if your case reaches the litigation stage, the court can understand the defense we craft for you.

Without skilled criminal justice attorneys, the legal system would work much differently. We protect our clients from infringements on their rights. When hiring a criminal defense attorney, you gain a partner who works to ensure the system is fair and just.

Protecting the Rights of Raleigh Residents

At Steven T. Meier, PLLC, we have years of experience protecting the rights of the Raleigh community. As your trusted attorneys, we believe that everyone deserves a fair chance in the legal system, and we seek to encourage that with every case. You can rest assured knowing that we understand sensitive situations around criminal defense charges and maintain strict confidentiality. Your information and case details help us craft your case, but our conversations remain private.

What Is a Criminal Defense Attorney?

A criminal defense attorney protects your right to innocence until proven guilty. You deserve a fair outcome, no matter the charge. Our job is to be your most prominent advocate in the legal system. We review the evidence against you, gather evidence that favors your side, investigate case matters, develop defenses, and negotiate plea bargains or attempt to dismiss your case. Plea bargains can mean a reduced charge, sentence, or both after pleading guilty or no contest.

When necessary, we can fight for you in the courtroom. Examining witnesses, filing motions, pleading your case, and performing other vital tasks can be essential in presenting the optimal case to your judge. We can help you understand each step to a successful case outcome. You can benefit from a personalized defense strategy that will defend your rights.

The Qualities of the Right Attorney

The right attorney can alert you to the gravity of your situation. Many people lack understanding of their charges after receiving them. While some overestimate the severity of their charges, many misunderstand the possible consequences of a criminal conviction.

Despite the severity of your charge, a criminal conviction can affect many aspects of your life, such as your employment or general social status. Defense attorneys can help educate their clients on the severity of their charges and the intricacies of the legal system. With this knowledge, an individual may be better informed when making decisions.

At Steven T. Meier, PLLC, we believe in open communication with our clients. Your attorney can inform you of any developments in your case and explain your legal options in the most straightforward manner possible. A team that addresses your concerns promptly can give you peace of mind in the legal process.

Criminal Charge Types in Raleigh

At Steven T. Meier, PLLC, we understand that different cases require different approaches. We explore all angles of your case and take it to trial when necessary.

The specific criminal charges you face determine our strategy and your possible sentences. We have criminal law knowledge in many areas and can consistently provide excellent representation. Charges we see often are:

• Assault: This charge penalizes individuals for threatening violence or creating the fear of harm in another person. Differing levels of severity depend on factors like possible weapon possession or usage, as well as the level of threat or fear the individual allegedly caused.
• Battery: Unlike assault, battery involves the unlawful physical attack of another person and causing them bodily harm. The extent of the individual’s injuries determines the severity of the charge, which can range from a misdemeanor to a felony.
• Burglary: A person commits burglary when they enter a building or dwelling intending to commit a crime, such as theft or vandalism. The severity of the charge follows the circumstances behind the entry, such as whether the individual broke a window or door.
• Drug Charges: Commonly involving the possession, manufacture, distribution, or trafficking of illegal narcotics or substances, drug charges can vary widely in their severity. The type and quantity of the involved drug hold weight in possible sentencing.
• Domestic Violence: This charge refers to a pattern of violence or abusive behavior in a domestic relationship, such as spouses, partners, or cohabitants. Domestic violence specifics can include physical assault, threats, emotional abuse, or stalking.
• DWI (Driving While Impaired): A DWI offense is when someone operates a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Authorities use blood alcohol content (BAC) levels to determine intoxication levels. Exceeding legal limits leads to stricter penalties.
• Theft: Unlawfully taking another person’s property without their consent is theft. This charge includes the intent to deprive the individual of their property permanently. The severity of a theft charge rests on the value of the stolen property.
• Sexual Assault: These crimes involve any unwanted sexual contact or behavior and can range from groping to rape. Threats, coercion, or the use of force can all increase the severity of the charge.
• Child Abuse and Molestation: Any act that harms a child physically, emotionally, or sexually is illegal. Crimes of this nature can involve neglect, endangerment, or corporal punishment exceeding a reasonable level of discipline. Molestation refers to any sexual contact between an adult and a minor.
• Arson: Arson charges involve intentionally setting fire to property and threatening lives or structures. A charge’s severity can depend on factors like the type of targeted property, the potential for harm, and whether or not the fire was set at night.
• White Collar Crimes: These non-violent offenses typically involve financial fraud, deception, or abuse of power. Examples of white-collar crime include embezzlement, insider trading, money laundering, or corporate fraud.

Being charged with one of these crimes does not ensure your conviction. Working with our criminal defense attorney means having a partner in your case. You can trust that we can work to protect your rights, fight against excessive penalties, and maintain your innocence.

Selecting the Right Defense

Our experienced criminal defense attorney can craft the proper defense for your case. It is our job to assume your innocence and fight against your charges. While different attorneys may approach your case differently, at Steven T. Meier, PLLC, you can know that the defense we choose will fit the circumstances of your case and the desired outcome.

While developing a unique defense strategy for your case can be vital, many defenses fall into a general category. Examples of the categories we could employ include the following:

You Did Not Commit the Crime

While this defense may seem overly simple, it can be crucial. If there are witnesses or evidence that can prove your alibi, or if the evidence does not point to your committing the crime, your defense can likely be successful. This success could lead to your freedom.

You Acted in Self-Defense

Self-defense is a defense commonly paired with violent charges. This strategy can show that while you used violence, you acted to prevent harm to your life or the lives of loved ones.

There Was No Crime Committed

This defense can prove your innocence if you show that the victim made up or exaggerated the evidence. Sometimes, if the victim’s claims are false, this can work in your favor.

Working with our criminal defense attorney will mean thoroughly examining your case. Our team works tirelessly on every case, even if the evidence against you seems infallible. We can explore every avenue, including motioning to suppress evidence, making plea bargains, and taking cases to trial.

Deciding Whether You Need a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are questioning whether or not a talented criminal defense attorney is right for your case, remember that showing up to court without proper representation can harm you in the future. While many people may believe representing themselves is the correct decision, many need help understanding their situation and its gravity.

At Steven T. Meier, PLLC, we understand what you are going through when you receive a criminal charge. We are here to provide support through your difficult time. Our Raleigh criminal defense attorney can become your trusted advisor. Steven T. Meier, PLLC, can advocate for an optimal outcome and protect your future.

Facing the legal system alone is not your only option. While the legal process can take time, we commit to working efficiently to achieve your most favorable outcome.

Criminal Defense Law FAQs

Q: How Much Is a Defense Attorney in NC?

A: The cost of a defense attorney in North Carolina depends on various factors, such as the type of criminal charges and case, the attorney’s experience level and practice location, and the case length. When deciding on a defense attorney in North Carolina, it can be wise to research the top penalties you receive if convicted. Understanding these details may help you understand the significance of an attorney, even if the cost may be shocking initially.

Q: What Makes the Ideal Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A: The ideal criminal defense lawyer is crucial to a successful outcome. An attorney’s experience level can significantly change your case’s outcome. When selecting a criminal defense attorney, you should look for someone who takes the time to acknowledge your concerns, understand your specific needs, and advocate for your desires.

Choosing the right attorney will affect your life going forward, so you need someone who understands the gravity of your situation and will be accessible and responsive to your needs.

Q: What Is the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor in NC?

A: The difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in North Carolina is that felonies are much more serious. They result in more severe sentencing. For instance, defendants convicted of a felony could spend more time in jail and pay more in fines. Some of their rights could also be taken away. Misdemeanors typically involve less jail time, and oftentimes, those convicted won’t have to go to jail at all.

Certain crimes may be charged differently depending on the specifics. For example, many DWIs are misdemeanors, while DWIs involving certain aggravating factors can be charged as felonies.

Q: What Is the Purpose of a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A: The purpose of a criminal defense lawyer is to advocate for your rights, review evidence, choose defense strategies, attempt to dismiss the case, and negotiate pleas. They also examine witnesses, assess potential sentences, and advise on possible consequences.

In addition, a criminal defense attorney’s assistance in your case can mean understanding that you are not alone. Facing charges can be difficult, and many people can become overwhelmed by the legal system. These attorneys have the experience to guide you through the process.

Get Help From a Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorney

The experience and education it takes to negotiate with prosecution or properly defend you in court is vital to successful outcomes. Hiring an attorney is justified by the many benefits you can receive from their assistance. We can answer your questions, explain your legal rights and the worst consequences of a possible conviction, and explore the most favorable outcome in cases like yours.

If you find yourself facing criminal charges, be sure to seek legal representation. Contact Steven T. Meier, PLLC, today for a consultation. Let us help you fight for your rights in North Carolina.